A recent poll by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlights a dangerous level of confusion among air travelers regarding safety rules for lithium batteries, increasing the risk of onboard fires.
The survey revealed that common misconceptions are rampant:
50% of passengers wrongly believe they can pack small lithium-powered devices in checked baggage.
45% think power banks can be stored in the aircraft hold.
33% are unsure about limits on larger batteries or spare power banks.
With travelers carrying more battery-powered devices than ever before (83% pack phones, 60% laptops, 44% power banks), IATA stresses that these “misconceptions highlight the need for clear and accurate guidance.” While these devices are safe when handled correctly, improper packing or damage can spark a disaster.
To address this gap in awareness, IATA has launched multilingual digital resources, including animations, that break down the seven essential safety rules for passengers:
7 Essential Safety Rules for Flying with Lithium Batteries:
Pack Light: Only carry the essential devices and batteries you truly need.
Stay Alert: Immediately notify the crew if a device is hot, smoking, or damaged.
Check Battery Size: Get airline approval for larger batteries (over 100 watt-hours), such as those used in cameras or drones.
Keep Devices With You: All battery-powered items (phones, laptops, cameras, vapes) must be carried in hand baggage, never in checked baggage.
Gate Check Reminder: If your carry-on bag is checked at the gate, remove all lithium batteries and devices first.
Protect Loose Batteries: Keep spare batteries and power banks in their original packaging or use tape to cover the terminals and prevent short-circuits.
Check with your Airline: Always confirm your airline’s specific policies, as rules may vary based on local regulations.
With input from IATA & Gulf News
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
